Relaxation of visa rules will attract to Myanmar more Asian visitors who will replace Westerners more reluctant to travel to the country as the refugee crisis in Rakhine develops. The UK and USA show the harshest drop downs in number of tourists visiting Myanmar with many UK tour agencies having stopped selling package tours to the country at all. Demand from other European countries like France has also weakened. The overall figures this year are about 40% less than in 2017 so far.
The only light in the end of the tunnel currently is the tourists from China showing steady growth. As everywhere in the region, they top the list of nationalities with the highest tourist arrivals this year.
Also from August, 1st, another important law related to foreigners come to effect in Maynmar: now foreign investors will be able to own up to 30% in shares of local companies and obtain the right to enjoy up to seven years of tax-free operations. Tourism in Myanmar is treated as one of the most attractive sectors of economy to invest in for foreigners.
Chinese, South Korean and Japanese Can Visit Myanmar Visa-Free
News in Asia
Chinese, South Korean and Japanese nationals will be able to visit Myanmar without a visa starting from August, 1st. The Ministry of Hotel and Tourism hopes this measure will help boost eco-friendly tourism in the country.